With 168 goals recorded across 302 matches, Tomasz Frankowski stands as the third highest scorer in the history of the Polish Ekstraklasa. A versatile striker, he represented clubs in six countries including Poland, France, Japan, Spain, England, and the United States before transitioning into a career in European politics following his retirement from professional sport in 2013.
Early Career and Success at Wisła Kraków
Born on 16 August 1974 in Białystok, Frankowski launched his professional path with his local club Jagiellonia Białystok in 1991. His most prolific period occurred upon his return to Poland to play for Wisła Kraków. During this tenure, he secured five league titles and two domestic cups, while earning recognition as the league's top scorer in 1999, 2001, and 2005.
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Frankowski experienced varying success across multiple foreign leagues. In August 2005, he joined the Spanish side Elche CF, where he netted eight goals in 14 appearances. A 2006 move to England's Wolverhampton Wanderers saw him struggle for form, leading to a loan spell at Tenerife. In 2008, he signed with the Chicago Fire in Major League Soccer, scoring twice during his home debut. His international career for Poland spanned 22 caps, during which he contributed ten goals, notably serving as the team's top scorer during the 2006 World Cup qualification campaign.
Final Years and Political Transition
Returning to Jagiellonia Białystok in December 2008, Frankowski reclaimed his form, winning the Polish Cup and the Super Cup in 2010. By April 2013, he had surpassed the scoring record held by Gerard Cieślik to move into third place on the league's all-time list. Following his retirement from football, he shifted his focus toward public service. Representing the Civic Platform party, he was elected to the European Parliament in 2019, where he has since publicly opposed the European Super League and proposals for a biennial World Cup.
Fast facts
- Born: 16 August 1974, Białystok
- Primary Position: Striker
- International Caps: 22
- International Goals: 10
- Ekstraklasa Titles: 5
- European Parliament Election: 2019
- Retired: 2013
Questions readers ask
How many total goals did Tomasz Frankowski score in the Polish Ekstraklasa?
He scored 168 goals in 302 matches.
What political office does Tomasz Frankowski hold?
He is a Member of the European Parliament, having been elected in 2019.
